This collection of historic villages located on the eastern side of Central Portugal provides a unique escape from hectic urban life. Each village has its own distinctive character and is worthy of a day trip, weekend get-away or extended holiday.
The Côa Valley, in central Portugal, is considered one of the most important rock art locations in the world. More than 70 sites can be found here, still in their original positions, displaying breath-taking engravings from prehistoric, protohistoric and historic times. In the heart of this culturally significant area is the Côa Museum.
Ovos moles are sweets, originating in the convents, made of egg yolks and sugar, wrapped in a thin wheat crust (the same dough used for “Hosts” in Catholic Masses). The sweets are molded into shapes symbolic of the Aveiro region, such as clams, mussels, fish, crabs, barrels, sea buoy, walnuts and chestnuts.
“Schist” is a type of crystalline metamorphic stone. It is easily split, creating a flat surface. For centuries, this “horizontal” stone became the ideal building material to create weatherproof, secure houses. Today, many original homes made of schist still stand and are remain occupied by the residents of the village.
Some of the best life experiences happen in some of the unlikeliest of places. This is most certainly true of...
Miguel Gigante, a designer from central Portugal, creates fashion garments and home décor made of wool. He is passionate about Burel, and so are the quickly increasing numbers of clients who snatch up products under his Atelier de Burel, Cool Natura, and Miguel Gigante labels.
The historical quarter of Viseu, in central Portugal, is a charming setting of narrow calçada stone streets, centuries old shop...
For the last few centuries, the city of Covilhã on the southern slopes of Serra da Estrela, in the district of Castelo Branco, has been known primarily for wool manufacturing. Yet, in the last few years, Covilhã has emerged...